50/50 not so 50/50

This 100 minute, R rated drama/comedic film will make you cry more than laugh.

Inspired by a true story, screenwriter Will Reiser bases the story on his own real-life battle with cancer that is brilliantly portrayed by director Jonathan Levine. “50/50” gives a clear view of the struggle that is free from manipulation and allows the viewers to decide on their own how to feel.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, from “500 Days of Summer,” and Seth Rogen, from “The Green Hornet,” are best friends whose lives are changed when Adam (Gordon-Levitt) is diagnosed with a rare cancer.

The script is based around the concept that friendship and love are the greatest healers, but also finding humor in unlikely places.

One such moment is when first learning of the disease and Adam’s 50/50 chance of living, Adam’s best friend Kyle (Rogen) said, “That’s not that bad. If you were a casino game, you’d have the best odds.”

Other characters keep the story progressing such as Adam’s no-good girlfriend Rachael (Bryce Dallas Howard) and Katherine (Anna Kendrick) Adam’s new therapist who has had only two patients previously.

Though it is an unexpectedly emotional film for something that is assumed to be mostly a comedy, based on almost 5,900 votes, “50/50” is given a rating of 8.4/10 on imdb.com.

One of the users, reginac23, who wrote a review shared a small story about being diagnosed with cancer themselves, spoke highly of “50/50,” especially the characters. They wrote, “Joseph Gordon Levitt and Seth Rogen deserve high praise for the honesty that they bring to their performances. There was not a false note anywhere…I plan to see it again when it is released…”

“50/50” is capable of appealing to many levels of audience because of the honesty of the film, and it will leave moviegoers with plenty to think about as they walk out of the theater and head home.

Though it’s not exactly first date material, “50/50” excels in a stirring performance and is worth seeing.

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Editor’s Note

All views expressed in editorials and columns within the Erie Square Gazette are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the ESG or any of its advertisers. We welcome feedback!